What Ohio Schools Offer Accelerated BSN Programs: Second Degree BSN

Ohio offers a wide range of pathways for individuals seeking to transition into nursing through accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs. These second-degree options are designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field and want to fast-track their entry into nursing. Typically completed in 12 to 24 months, ABSN programs combine rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences to prepare graduates for professional practice. With a growing demand for skilled nurses across the state, these programs provide a strategic opportunity to enter the workforce quickly while building on existing academic and professional foundations.
2027 Best ABSN Programs in Ohio
Mount Carmel College of Nursing
Columbus, OH - Private 4-year - mccn.edu
Bachelor's - Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mount Carmel College of Nursing's Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP) is designed for students with a prior bachelor's degree seeking a nursing career. Choose from a 13-month or 18-month hybrid track. The curriculum blends online coursework with campus-based skills labs and clinical rotations. You'll learn patient care, health assessment, and nursing leadership while preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam. With a 10:1 student-to-faculty clinical ratio, you receive individualized support. Graduates work as registered nurses in diverse healthcare settings. As part of Trinity Health, the program offers strong employment connections. The program is rigorous and requires full-time commitment. Benefit from a 91% NCLEX pass rate and 100% job placement within a year. This accelerated option is perfect for career changers aiming to enter nursing quickly and effectively.
- 91% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- 13-month or 18-month track options
- Part of Trinity Health System
- For prior bachelor's degree holders
- Blended and fully online courses
- Evening and weekend scheduling
- 10:1 student to clinical faculty ratio
Bachelor's - Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP) - Evening/Weekend
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP) at Mount Carmel College of Nursing is a hybrid BSN track designed for adults with a prior bachelor's degree who want to change careers. In just 18 months, you can earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing through a flexible evening and weekend schedule that combines online learning with on-campus labs and clinical experiences. The curriculum covers essential nursing theory, clinical skills, and patient care, preparing you to sit for the NCLEX-RN and become a licensed registered nurse. With small class sizes averaging 30 students and a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you receive personalized instruction and support. The program emphasizes hands-on practice in diverse healthcare settings, from hospitals to community clinics. Graduates are ready for roles in medical-surgical nursing, critical care, pediatrics, and more. Rolling admissions let you start when it fits your life. Whether you're balancing work or family, this accelerated pathway helps you launch a rewarding nursing career without putting everything on hold.
- 18-Month program
- Rolling admissions
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Blend of online and face-to-face instruction
- Evenings and weekends for classes
- 120 years of educating nurses
- 30 average class size
- 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Designed for busy lifestyles
- Personalized instruction
Ohio State University
Columbus, OH - Public 4-Year - osu.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ohio State's Accelerated BSN is a fast-track program for career changers who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. In just five semesters (59 credits), you'll dive into nursing coursework covering adult health, pediatrics, psychiatric care, and community health. Clinical rotations at the renowned Wexner Medical Center and other partners give you hands-on experience across diverse settings. The hybrid format blends online classes with in-person labs and clinicals, letting you balance learning with life. Graduates emerge ready to sit for the NCLEX-RN and pursue roles in hospitals, clinics, or specialty care. With top rankings (#1 public BSN by U.S. News) and a powerful alumni network, this program offers a direct path to a rewarding nursing career.
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in five consecutive semesters
- 59 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts summer
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- $60 application fee
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
Capital University
Columbus, OH - Private 4-year - capital.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Capital University's Accelerated BSN (ABSN) is designed for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders seeking a fast path to nursing. In as few as 20 months, you can earn your BSN through a daytime or flexible hybrid track. The hybrid option blends online lectures with one evening on campus per week for labs and exams, plus a clinical day. The curriculum includes three master's-level courses in healthcare statistics, research, and informatics, giving you graduate credit and a head start on an MSN. Clinical experiences start your first semester at over 80 partner hospitals in Columbus, including OhioHealth and Nationwide Children's. Capital's holistic nursing focus prepares you for the NCLEX and holistic nurse certification. Graduates work in hospitals, community health, hospice, and more. With a 100% NCLEX pass rate and dedicated faculty advising, the ABSN program builds skilled, compassionate nurse leaders.
- CCNE accredited
- 2 concentration options
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in as few as 20 months
- Rolling admissions
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Synchronous and asynchronous options
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Capital University's Accelerated BSN (ABSN) is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field and are ready to launch a nursing career. The program offers two tracks: a traditional daytime option and a flexible hybrid format that blends online asynchronous lectures with on-campus labs and clinicals. You'll complete 5 semesters of intensive study covering nursing theory, skills labs, and clinical rotations at top Columbus hospitals like OhioHealth and Nationwide Children's. A unique feature is the inclusion of three master's-level courses in healthcare statistics, research, and informatics, giving you a head start on graduate study. With a holistic nursing philosophy, a 1:1 faculty advising model, and a 100% NCLEX pass rate in 2024, graduates are well-prepared for roles in hospitals, community health, hospice, and more. Clinical experiences begin in the first semester, and the flexible hybrid track allows you to work while studying.
- CCNE accredited
- 2 concentration options
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in as few as 20 months
- Rolling admissions
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Synchronous and asynchronous options
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
Cleveland State University
Cleveland, OH - Public 4-Year - csuohio.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Cleveland State University's Accelerated BSN program offers a fast track to a nursing career for students who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. In just four consecutive semesters of full-time study, you'll complete theory and clinical courses covering all nursing specialties. The curriculum prepares you to practice as a professional generalist nurse and to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Choose between an in-person track starting in January or a fully online option with fall and spring start dates. You'll benefit from prerequisite coursework in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and microbiology, and a competitive admission process that considers GPA, references, and healthcare experience. Graduates are well-prepared for entry-level registered nurse positions in hospitals, clinics, and community settings.
- 4-Semester program
- Starts fall/spring
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Online and in-person options
- Requires non-nursing bachelor's degree
- Full-time enrollment required
Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Accelerated BSN at Cleveland State University is for students with a prior bachelor's degree who want a fast track into nursing. This full-time, four-semester program starts each January and covers all nursing specialties through theory and clinical courses. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN and generalist practice as registered nurses. Prerequisites require strong science grades and a 3.0 GPA. Admission is competitive with limited spots. An online ABSN option is also available. Located on Cleveland State's campus, the program offers hands-on learning in modern facilities.
- 4-Semester program
- Complete in four consecutive semesters
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts spring
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Online ABSN also available
- Competitive admission, limited spots
Kettering College
Kettering, OH - Private 4-year - kc.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kettering College's Accelerated BSN is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. This 15-month program lets you transition into nursing quickly. The curriculum includes nursing courses and clinical experiences that start in the first course, with rotations at Kettering Health hospitals and other community healthcare facilities. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses. The program begins in August each year. With Kettering College's integration into the Kettering Health network, students gain hands-on experience in a real healthcare environment. Career opportunities include hospital nursing, community health, and more. The program's accelerated format and clinical partnerships make it a compelling choice for career changers.
- 15-Month program
- Starts fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- For bachelor's degree holders
- Clinical experiences in Kettering Health
- Classes start in August
- Clinical experiences begin first course
- Part of Kettering Health network
Walsh University
North Canton, OH - Private 4-year - walsh.edu
Bachelor's - Fast Track BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Walsh University’s Fast Track BSN program is a hybrid, accelerated nursing degree designed for working adults who want a faster path to becoming a registered nurse. The curriculum blends online coursework with evening and weekend in-person labs and clinical experiences at healthcare facilities across Northeast Ohio. Core courses cover nursing research, population-focused care, family nursing, leadership, critical care, and a capstone. Students prep for the NCLEX and can transition into Walsh’s MSN program. The program offers affordable tuition at $510 per credit hour, credit for prior learning, military benefits, and financial aid. Graduates pursue roles as registered nurses, clinic nurses, home health nurses, and pediatric nurses.
- $510 per credit
- 24-Month program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- $0 application fee
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Military benefits accepted
Mercy College of Ohio
Toledo, OH - Private 4-year - mercycollege.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercy College of Ohio offers an Accelerated BSN program for those who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree. This hybrid program combines online lectures with hands-on clinicals, which are scheduled over long weekends to accommodate working students. The curriculum covers essential nursing knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN and careers as registered nurses. What sets this program apart is its flexibility and support: students can complete it in just four consecutive semesters, and those employed by Mercy Health may qualify for 100% tuition coverage. Faculty are attentive and responsive to student needs. With a growing demand for nurses, this fast-track option provides a practical path to a rewarding profession.
- 4-Semester program
- Full-time enrollment
- Employer reimbursement supported
- Financial aid available
- Hybrid course delivery with online lectures
- Clinicals grouped over long weekends
- Designed for working students
- 100% tuition coverage for Mercy Health workers
- Fast-track for non-nursing bachelor's holders
- Debt-free nursing education option
Muskingum University
New Concord, OH - Private 4-year - muskingum.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) at Muskingum University offers a fast-track for students who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. In just 15 months, you'll complete a hybrid program that blends online coursework with hands-on lab sessions and in-person clinical rotations. This structure lets you learn theory at your own pace while gaining practical experience in healthcare settings. The curriculum covers essential nursing skills, patient care techniques, and critical thinking. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX and pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations. What sets this program apart is its small class sizes, fostering a collaborative environment where you receive personalized mentorship from expert faculty. The program is accredited by CCNE, ensuring a high-quality education that meets national standards.
- CCNE accredited
- 15-Month program
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Small class sizes
- Online coursework with hands-on labs
- For students with non-nursing degrees
- Collaborative learning environment
- Expert faculty mentorship
University of Akron
Akron, OH - Public 4-Year - uakron.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Akron's Accelerated BSN program is a second-degree option designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. This full-time, cohort-based program spans four semesters (16 months) and starts each May. Students complete a rigorous curriculum of nursing courses, building on prerequisite sciences such as chemistry, anatomy & physiology, and microbiology. Graduates earn a baccalaureate degree in nursing and are prepared to sit for the RN licensure examination. Admission requires a cumulative GPA of 2.75, one letter of recommendation, and completion of all prerequisites. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience and academic support to launch a rewarding nursing career.
- 4-Semester program
- Complete in four semesters
- Apply by 2025-12-01
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts summer
- Cohort-based structure
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for RN licensure examination
Wittenberg University
Springfield, OH - Private 4-year - wittenberg.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Visit Website
Wittenberg University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is a fast-paced, 16-month program designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree and are ready to transition into nursing. The curriculum blends online asynchronous coursework with hands-on lab and clinical training, allowing students to study on their own schedule while gaining essential practical skills. You'll explore topics like patient care, health assessment, and nursing leadership, all grounded in a liberal arts foundation. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX and pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. The program is accredited by the CCNE through 2031, and faculty bring real-world expertise to support your success. With strong job growth projected for nurses, this ABSN offers a direct path to a rewarding healthcare career.
- CCNE accredited
- 16-Month program
- 59 total credit hours
- Asynchronous online classes
- Designed for career changers
- Online coursework with on-site labs
- CCNE accredited through 2031
- Asynchronous learning flexibility
- Registered nurse job growth 6%
- Experienced nursing faculty
List of Ohio Accelerated BSN Programs
Akron, OH
University of Akron
- Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Semester program
- Complete in four semesters
- Apply by 2025-12-01
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts summer
- Cohort-based structure
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
Alliance, OH
University of Mount Union
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE, Ohio Board of Nursing accredited
- $500 per credit
- 15-Month program
- 72 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-04-13
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Berea, OH
Baldwin Wallace University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Ohio Board of Nursing accredited
- $44,348 total program tuition
- 15-Month program
- 63 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-05-30
- Rolling admissions
- Full-time enrollment
- 1 start dates per year
Canton, OH
Malone University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 5-Semester program
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Direct acceptance into nursing program
- Access to Nursing Center for Study & Testing
Cincinnati, OH
Mount St. Joseph University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated 3-Year BSN Pathway
Campus Based - Website
- 3-Year program
- 3.5 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- Graduate sooner to minimize costs
- Help fill healthcare gaps
- Dedicated Academic Success Coach
- Recommended ACT 21+ or SAT 1070+
The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- $40,625 total program tuition
- 16-Month program
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Guaranteed clinical placement
- The Christ Hospital partnership
Xavier University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.N.
Concentration: Accelerated BSN - Campus Based - Website
- 2 concentration options
- Designed for students with prior baccalaureate degree
- Prepares for RN licensure
- State-of-the-art clinical simulation labs
- Interprofessional learning opportunities
- Holistic health and wellness model
- Focus on communication and teamwork skills
Cleveland, OH
Cleveland State University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN Program
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Semester program
- Complete in four consecutive semesters
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts spring
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- 4-Semester program
- Starts fall/spring
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Online and in-person options
Columbus, OH
Capital University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 2 concentration options
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in as few as 20 months
- Rolling admissions
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Synchronous and asynchronous options
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 2 concentration options
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in as few as 20 months
- Rolling admissions
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Synchronous and asynchronous options
Felbry College
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Completion Program
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program.
- Flexible for working nurses.
- Accelerated 16-month option.
- No NCLEX required post-completion.
- Advanced standing for RNs.
- Focus on leadership and safety.
- Enhances evidence-based practice skills.
- Prepares for BSN-RN level jobs.
Mount Carmel College of Nursing
- Bachelor's - Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP) - Evening/Weekend
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 18-Month program
- Rolling admissions
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Blend of online and face-to-face instruction
- Evenings and weekends for classes
- 120 years of educating nurses
- 30 average class size
- 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Bachelor's - Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 91% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- 13-month or 18-month track options
- Part of Trinity Health System
- For prior bachelor's degree holders
- Blended and fully online courses
- Evening and weekend scheduling
Ohio State University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in five consecutive semesters
- 59 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts summer
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- $60 application fee
Kettering, OH
Kettering College
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 15-Month program
- Starts fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- For bachelor's degree holders
- Clinical experiences in Kettering Health
- Classes start in August
- Clinical experiences begin first course
- Part of Kettering Health network
New Concord, OH
Muskingum University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 15-Month program
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Small class sizes
- Online coursework with hands-on labs
- For students with non-nursing degrees
- Collaborative learning environment
- Expert faculty mentorship
North Canton, OH
Walsh University
- Bachelor's - Fast Track BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- $510 per credit
- 24-Month program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- $0 application fee
Pepper Pike, OH
Ursuline College
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE, Ohio Board of Nursing accredited
- 15-Month program
- Rolling admissions
- Full-time and part-time options
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts winter/spring/summer
- 100% job placement rate
- $60,000 median earnings
Springfield, OH
Wittenberg University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 16-Month program
- 59 total credit hours
- Asynchronous online classes
- Designed for career changers
- Online coursework with on-site labs
- CCNE accredited through 2031
- Asynchronous learning flexibility
Toledo, OH
Mercy College of Ohio
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 4-Semester program
- Full-time enrollment
- Employer reimbursement supported
- Financial aid available
- Hybrid course delivery with online lectures
- Clinicals grouped over long weekends
- Designed for working students
- 100% tuition coverage for Mercy Health workers
2027 Affordable ABSN Programs in Ohio
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Cleveland State University |
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| Mercy College of Ohio |
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| Ohio State University |
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If you're exploring nursing schools in Ohio, our comprehensive state guide serves as a trusted resource for understanding the full spectrum of educational pathways, from entry-level programs to advanced degrees. Whether you are beginning your nursing journey or seeking to advance your credentials, this guide provides clear, up-to-date information on Ohio nursing program options, licensure requirements, and career opportunities. With Ohio's growing demand for qualified nurses, it equips you with the knowledge needed to make confident and informed decisions about your future in the profession.
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